Aiming High

Coaching a hurdler

Aiming High is a project designed to increase the quality, quantity and range of provision of "short term breaks" for disabled

children (learning and physical). The aim is to provide opportunities for children to participate in leisure/recreational and physical activities.

Since the end of 2009 Ashford Borough was commissioned by the Local Children's Partnership to deliver taster days and events as well as giving grants out to other organisations to be able to deliver

other activities -:

Two days of activities were successfully run at the Stour Centre (Ashford) at Christmas giving the children opportunities to participate in dance, trampolining, football and swimming. Nearly 50 children took part and parent Raymond Hutchinson said "my son enjoyed the activities and I was given the opportunity to relax under supervision."
A few weeks later in January an event was held at the North School in Ashford which involved the new climbing wall and the farm. 18 children took part and parent Alison Biffin said "Matthew says he was so impressed he got to the top".
An under 7's event was held in Ashford that involved soft play and bouncy castles and was a general play day type session, nearly 30 people took part.
Wyvern after School Club runs for 2 hours straight after school every week. 30 children attend regularly and enjoy a variety of activities such as art, music and sports. Many of the children who attended the Wyvern after school club and the Volleygators attended the recent Kent School Games and excelled.
Volleygators is specifically for over 16’s who wish to pursue their interest in Sitting Volleyball. There are regularly 10 children who attend these sessions.
In March 2010 there was a Consultation and Activity Day at the Julie Rose Stadium, in association with Kent Parents Partnership Network.
In March 2010 the Kent Children’s Network Fund was commissioned to provide family play services to children with disabilities in rural areas.
Ashford Transition Group provides activities that encourage life skills and the ability to be independent, the group has 16 users.
May 2010 the Children’s Society was commissioned to deliver a swimming programme to children with profound disabilities who are not able to access regular activities. 20 users have participated so far.

Quotes

“Ashford Borough Council has engaged with our families in a very open way. They have listened and provided a huge range of different sports and leisure opportunities. This has found the key to my happiness, which is simple. My child is as valuable as yours; he is worth trying for, and his happiness is in achievement and growth at his own pace.”

(Mrs Lyell 2010)

"I could relax & play with both my children and have lots of fun with them, thank you"

(Jolene Nailor 2010)

"Stuart had a lovely time, was happy which makes me happy"

(Jane Chandler 2010)

"Children enjoyed every minute, excellent to be able to bring sisters and brothers, Alistair had fun and I had coffee & a chat in peace."

(Maria Bailey 2010)

Upcoming Events

The Stour Centre are running programmes throughout the next few months at a cost of £1 -swimming, tumble time and trampolining are all on offer.

An Under 7's club continues throughout the year at the Stour Centre with all the usual activities such as trampolining, a bouncy castle, messy and soft play.

Monday 25^th October – 10am to 12pm Pre book by contacting Mike Grant on 01233 330306 or 07899065547.

Ashford Borough Council, Civic Centre, Tannery Lane, Ashford TN23 1PL
Telephone: 01233 330232 Email: activeashford@ashford.gov.uk